Second Engage Breakfast to weigh issue of growing veteran population

This month's breakfast is organized by the community leadership nonprofit Leadership Austin. The event runs from 7:30–9 a.m. Nov. 14 in the Kodosky Donor Lounge at the Long Center for the Performing Arts, 701 W. Riverside Drive, and features a four-panelist discussion about how to address the needs of the growing veteran population in Central Texas by focusing on jobs, medical care and educational access.

"It's something that KXAN brought to our attention," Smith said, adding that one theme for the series is how the region is responding to the growth it is experiencing. "This is a segment of the population to look at and say, 'What are we doing to support them as they transition back into civilian life?'"

Smith said Texas has more than 1.6 million veterans, making it one of the largest veteran populations in the U.S.

Panelists include state Sen. Leticia Van de Putte, R-District 26; Allen Bergron, veterans consultant for the City of Austin; Lt. Col. Joseph Kosper, chairman of military science for The University of Texas; and Steven Pullin, veterans advocate with the Department of Veterans Affairs Heart of Texas Healthcare Network. The panel will be moderated by KXAN anchor Shannon Wolfson.

Smith said she believes the panel will provide a balanced discussion about the issue from a state and local perspective as well as from a personal perspective in dealing with the veteran population's needs.

"We've got a great panel lined up," Smith said.

Tickets are available for the breakfast and cost $25. Alumni rates are available. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.leada.us/engage or call 499-0435.